New boost for Russian DTH market

The Russian DTH service Platforma HD will introduce a new package, consisting of 20 SD channels, on February 1.

Known as Platforma DV, it will be distributed via a second transponder on Eutelsat’s Eurobird 9 satellite leased by its operator, the National Satellite Company. Platforma DV will cost subscribers R900 (€19.8) a year to receive and supplement Platforma HD, a service that offers five HD channels for R3,600 a year.

Those who choose to receive both – Platforma DV will be accessible to viewers in western parts of Russia with a 60-90cm dish – will be required to pay R4,200 a year.

Platforma HD, which made its debut last year, was along with Hungary’s Hello HD one of the first DTH platforms in CEE to offer principally HD channels.